Meaning of "Song to the Siren" by Tim Buckley

"Song to the Siren" paints a vivid picture of longing and desire, as well as the pain and confusion that can accompany them. The opening lines describe the speaker's solitary journey through life, encountering a sense of aimlessness and emptiness as they float on "shipless oceans." However, when the speaker encounters the person they are captivated by, represented metaphorically as an island, their emotional landscape changes.

The person's "singing eyes and fingers" become irresistible, drawing the speaker closer and sparking a desire for closeness and connection. The repeated pleas of "Sail to me, let me enfold you" reflect the speaker's yearning to be embraced and comforted by this person. Yet, despite this longing, there is an underlying sense of the speaker's insecurity and fear of rejection. They question whether the other person actually dreams of them, or if they are just a mere figment of their own imagination. This uncertainty adds to their emotional turmoil and leaves them feeling vulnerable and exposed.

The imagery of the boat leaning and breaking on the rocks symbolizes the speaker's heart being shattered. The person they desire seems to push them away, proclaiming, "Touch me not, touch me not, come back tomorrow." This rejection further deepens the speaker's pain and intensifies their longing.

The following stanza expresses the speaker's inner conflict and confusion. They compare themselves to a newborn child and the troubled tide, highlighting their uncertainty and vulnerability. They question whether they should brave the treacherous waves of love or accept the solace of death as their bride. These thoughts reflect the depth of their despair and the desperate search for answers.

The final plea, "Swim to me, let me enfold you," echoes their previous calls for connection and intimacy. The speaker is still waiting and hoping to be held, emphasizing their persistent longing and desire. However, there is a tragic undertone to this plea, as it is uncertain whether their wish will ever be fulfilled.